Guarding my eggs from an edible crab

Tompot blenny RL 1227 93

Now I’ve got eggs to care for, I need to keep intruders away. This edible crab is too close and I’m concerned he wants to use those big claws to pick and eat my youngsters developing in their eggs. As you can see, I’m biting and pushing his leg to scare him off. He’s slow on the uptake so it can take a while but eventually he will get the message and shuffle off. Meanwhile, he is protecting his antennae, eyes and mouth from my attacks.

The velvet swimming crabs can be more difficult to chase away, as they like a fight. I use a different tactic with them because they are fast and have sharp claws. I harass them by darting in quickly so they don’t have time to nip me. I’m clever as well as very bossy!

Hello, I’m Benny the Blenny. I’m a real fish with lots to tell you!

Hello, I’m Benny the Blenny.

I’m very excited to be starting my blog on WordPress, telling you all about the wonderful world in the sea around Britain. Who am I? I’m a small fish, a tompot blenny, that lives very close to rocky and stony beaches. You could spot me if you go snorkelling or you might sometimes find me in rockpools if the tide is very low.

In my blog, I’ll be telling you all about me and what my superb red head tentacles are for, what happens in my life and what all my neighbours are doing. I usually live in the same spot for a long time, and I will tell you about the other animals that I see from my home – like crabs, starfish, cuttlefish and many more!

This blog is being posted for children on the Wildlife Trusts Wildlife Watch website.

Wildlife Watch Benny the Blenny’s blog that site also has lots of fun things to look at too.

You can also find out more about me on Bennytheblenny.com